Wiper Arm Adapter With Resilient Tongue And Guide Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wiper blade connection systems lack versatility and security in attaching different types of wiper arms, particularly in ensuring proper alignment and secure fixation of connecting elements.
Innovation Solution
The adapter features a base element with lateral walls connected by an end cap and a hub, along with a resilient tongue and button mechanism, which allows for secure and adjustable connection of various connecting elements to the wiper blade using guide profiles and cover caps, preventing improper assembly through a blocking element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single-part connector element is used for wiper blade connection, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the adaptability to different wiper arm types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector element is divided into multiple separate components: a base element, a cover cap, and a connecting element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and combined in different configurations to accommodate various wiper arm types, thereby maintaining manufacturing simplicity while enhancing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base element is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different connecting elements and cover caps through standardized interfaces such as guide profiles, guide grooves, and bearing openings. This multi-functionality enables a single base element design to work with multiple wiper arm types without requiring complete redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used for the adapter, then the adaptability to different wiper arm types is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional features are merged into the base element, including guide profiles for lateral guidance, bearing openings for pivot spindle reception, and attachment interfaces for connecting elements. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining adaptability to different wiper arm types.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element and cover cap are designed to nest around and attach to the base element in a hierarchical manner. The connecting element fits into the base element's guide grooves, and the cover cap encloses and secures the connecting element, creating a compact nested structure that simplifies assembly while providing multiple attachment options.
3Manufacturing precision
If guide profiles with guide grooves and guide ribs are used, then the alignment precision is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Guide profiles with specific geometries are applied locally at critical interfaces where precision alignment is needed, such as the interface between the base element and connecting element. The guide grooves and guide ribs are strategically positioned to provide alignment in specific directions (longitudinal and vertical) without requiring complex guidance mechanisms throughout the entire assembly.
4Reliability
If a button mechanism with blocking element is used, then the reliability of secure fixation is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is pre-positioned on the button mechanism to automatically prevent improper assembly attempts before the connecting element is fully installed. This preliminary action provides immediate feedback to the assembler about correct assembly orientation and sequence, reducing errors while maintaining secure fixation through the button's latching action.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adapter provides secure and adjustable connections for different wiper arm types, ensuring proper alignment and fixation, enhancing the guidance and stability of the wiper blade in both longitudinal and vertical directions.
Implementation Method 1
A resilient tongue extends from the crosspiece to the end face of the base element on the wiper arm side, and has at the free end thereof an outwardly protruding button
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an adapter (22) for the articulated connection of a connecting element (86, 102, 120) at the end of a wiper arm to a connector element (18) of a wiper blade (10), in particular in the flat bar method of construction, wherein the adapter (22) has a base element (24). According to the invention, the base element (24) has two lateral walls (30) which, at the end faces thereof facing away from the wiper arm, are connected by an end cap (26), and in the region of the upper edges (64) thereof are connected to each other by a crosspiece (32) and also by a hub (34). A resilient tongue (38) extends from the crosspiece (32) to the end face on the wiper arm side, and has at the free end thereof an outwardly protruding button (40). Furthermore, guide profiles (50) are provided on the longitudinal edges of the lateral walls (30) facing towards the wiper strip (16).